Senior Living Blog by UMH

Aging & Caregiving | Independent Senior Living | dependent senior living | senior living homes | senior living nutrition

Senior Nutrition: Healthy Eating for Older Adults

By: Elizabeth Bemis August 11th, 2020

The aging process is an interesting one for sure. And like any other phase of life, one’s golden years are accompanied by unique ups and downs, joys and sorrows, moments of anxiety and moments of peace. There are changes to mind, body and spirit. There are new things to learn and new opportunities to embrace. And while there’s no stopping the aging process, there’s much that can be done to live your senior years with the utmost satisfaction and enjoyment. In most cases, this journey is best supported by a healthy approach to diet and nutrition.

What is Senior Caregiver Guilt, and What Can You Do to Cope?

By: Marissa Salvesen July 17th, 2020

When you’re caring for an aging loved one, it’s easy to get caught up in the self-defeating inner dialogue that’s tied to feelings of guilt.

Not sure what senior living and care solution is best for your loved one? Start making sense of your options.

Get the award-winning guide and subscribe to our blog.

Aging & Caregiving | Independent Senior Living | dependent senior living | senior living homes | senior living nutrition

12 Unique Hobbies That Are Unexpectedly Perfect for Seniors

By: Elizabeth Bemis July 17th, 2020

Many adults who are navigating the nuances of their golden years can experience a sense of loss in terms of engagement with activities that fill their days with purpose. What they may not be considering is that this stage in a person’s life is often the ideal time to take up a new hobby. From physical benefits to mental and emotional health advantages, engaging in an enjoyable hobby can offer seniors immense meaning and value. As you acknowledge this reality and begin to think about what hobbies pique your interest as well as meet your individual needs, you might defer to senior staples like gardening, knitting and painting. And while these are certainly excellent choices if they suit your particular fancy, there are also some lesser-known options you may never have considered before.

Self-Care for the Caregiver: Why and How to Prioritize Your Own Well-Being

By: Marissa Salvesen June 18th, 2020

Caregivers are called upon to do so much, continually giving of themselves in any number of ways. Many are sandwiched between the needs of their elderly, dependent parents and the responsibilities of tending to their children who haven’t yet left the nest. In the midst of balancing this complex family life with a potential career, there’s often very little time and energy devoted to caring for themselves. But when the caregiver neglects their own needs, they risk some highly detrimental outcomes, not the least of which is physical, mental and emotional burnout. According to the most recent Caregiving in the U.S. study, conducted by the National Alliance for Caregiving (NAC) and the AARP Public Policy Institute:

Tech Review: 14 of the Best Free Apps for Seniors

By: Marissa Salvesen May 20th, 2020

It goes without saying that, on the whole, technology is more readily adopted and easily navigated by younger generations—those who were born into the computer age and grew up with smartphones at their fingertips. But it’s also true that, now more than ever, technology has emerged as essential to people spanning every age group, in one way or another. Thanks to ongoing advancements in mobile technology and user-friendly interfaces, seniors are quickly becoming a much larger demographic of users.

Senior Caregiver Burnout: Is the Burden Taking a Toll on You?

By: Marissa Salvesen March 12th, 2020

As a primary caregiver for an aging parent or loved one, it’s easy to get so caught up in meeting their needs and managing all of the responsibilities that you neglect your own mental and physical well-being. The demands of being a caregiver can become extremely overwhelming, taking a toll on your mind, body and emotional state. Without proper awareness and a balanced approach to this lifestyle, you may find yourself suffering the effects of caregiver burnout.

10 Stimulating Activities for the Elderly

By: Elizabeth Bemis March 12th, 2020

Feeling like the senior in your life has slowly slumped into a daily rut? It’s certainly common for elderly adults to develop a routine that eventually dulls their spirit and negatively impacts their physical and mental health. But there’s good news: You can introduce a whole host of stimulating activities to help improve your aging loved one’s quality of life.

What Every Senior Needs to Know about Heart Health

By: Elizabeth Bemis February 12th, 2020

People aged 65 and older are much more likely than younger people to suffer a heart attack, have a stroke or develop coronary heart disease and heart failure, according to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services’ National Institute on Aging (NIH). Heart disease is the number-one cause of death in the United States, and the NIH indicates that it’s a major cause of disability, which can limit activity and erode quality of life for millions of seniors.

Expert Insights for Seniors Battling the Winter Blues

By: Elizabeth Bemis February 12th, 2020

It is all too common for seniors to experience feelings of sadness and loneliness during the cold and dark winter months. If you or an aging loved one are finding it difficult to overcome the winter blues this season, you are certainly not alone. With less daylight, declining temperatures and the dangers associated with getting out during periods of snow and ice, it’s no wonder so many seniors undergo the effects of cabin fever and other mood-depleting factors.

Winter Activities for Seniors: Embracing the Season - Indoors and Out

By: Elizabeth Bemis January 14th, 2020

As temperatures drop and colder weather settles in for the season, it can be easy to slip into a state of boredom. For seniors, in particular, it’s important to head off the winter blues with an array of enjoyable events and activities. Staying engaged and active is a critical component of maintaining positive health and well-being in the later years of life.

Wesley Village Celebrates its 50th Anniversary

By: Laura Gustafson September 30th, 2019

As Wesley Village celebrates 50 years of superb senior care, our community reflects on its people. From our courageous patients and residents, their families, our employees, community members and our volunteers. Each person makes a significant difference in continuing a legacy of people caring for people.